Hong Kong Customs yesterday (November 1) smashed a suspected illicit cigarette storehouse at Tai Kok Tsui and seized about 200 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes with a total value of about $500,000 and a duty potential of about $380,000.

During an anti-illicit cigarette operation at Tai Kok Tsui yesterday, Customs officers seized the suspected illicit cigarettes from a factory building unit, which was suspected to be an illicit cigarette storehouse. A 50-year-old woman was arrested. Investigation is ongoing.

Customs will continue to undertake stringent enforcement against illicit cigarette activities to protect government revenue.

Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities by calling the Customs 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.